COLOMBO — Nov 28:
Sri Lanka is in crisis tonight after Cyclone Ditwah tore across the country, killing 46 people and leaving 23 missing, according to emergency officials. The storm continues to intensify as massive landslides and extreme flooding devastate eastern and central regions.
More than 43,900 residents have been evacuated, with families pulled from flooded homes and rooftops as rescue teams fight to reach isolated communities. Many areas remain inaccessible as roads are buried under mud and debris.
Schools nationwide are shut, rail services have been suspended, and the Colombo Stock Exchange halted trading early due to worsening conditions.
Authorities warn that the cyclone could strengthen again over the next 12 hours.
Sri Lanka’s main airport is facing severe disruptions. Officials say flights may be diverted to Trivandrum or Cochin in southern India. At least six flights—including those from Dubai, Muscat, New Delhi and Bangkok—have already been rerouted.
“We are doing everything possible, but landslides have blocked access to several villages,” said Brigadier S. Dharmawickrema of the Disaster Management Centre.
This remains a developing story as rescue operations continue and the full extent of the destruction is still emerging.
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